Renewable Water Resources’ I & I Reduction Program Serves as Industry Model
February 21, 2012
Organization publishes whitepaper on Inflow & Infiltration partnership tactics
GREENVILLE, SC – February 21, 2012 – Wastewater treatment utilities across the country are facing challenges including the need for increased system capacity and the ability to meet stricter state and federal environmental regulations. One of the current pressing operational issues is Inflow & Infiltration (I & I). Renewable Water Resources (ReWa) is well-positioned to deal with these challenges and is partnering with several subdistricts to ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place to sustain future economic growth.
I & I occurs when rainwater and groundwater enter the sewer system. When I & I is mixed with wastewater the necessary capacity for the receiving treatment plant can double or even triple. Removing extra water from the collections system helps 1) reduce the need to build new wastewater treatment plants in the future, 2) reduce the potential for property damage, and 3) ensure a clean environment for future generations.
ReWa works with its 17 subdistricts to maintain the collection and sewer system, combating I & I with an Upstate-wide reduction program. The program includes flow-monitoring, periodic sewer line and manhole inspects, and active repair and rehabilitation programs.
The success of I & I Reduction Program has provided an industry model for other communities to address this infrastructure and environmental issue. The leadership at ReWa recently published a whitepaper on the subject: “Inflow & Infiltration: A System-wide Sewer Rehabilitation Program.”
The whitepaper is available online at http://rewaonline.org/inflow-infiltration.php.
About Renewable Water Resources (ReWa)
ReWa’s goal is to promote a cleaner environment, and to protect the public health and water quality of the Upstate waterways, while providing and developing the necessary sewer infrastructure for the growing economy. ReWa serves more than 400,000 industrial, commercial and residential customers in Greenville County and parts of Anderson, Spartanburg, Pickens and Laurens Counties.
